8th Annual Matt Patterson Toy Drive underway

The 8th Annual Matt Patterson Memorial Toy Drive, held each year in honor of the late Matt Patterson, is well underway, with over 400 children on their list to help this year already.

The family had a tradition of distributing toys to children at Christmas time and Matt would help his mother distribute toys to children on his Christmas vacation from school.

Matt, son of Herman Patterson and Candy Patterson-Brewer, passed away in July of 2005. He is survived by one sister, Emily, and grandparents Herman and Johnnie Patterson. He was also the grandson of the late Alberta and Everett “Shorty” Evans.

Every year, the Logan High School basketball team helps with the distribution of toys. This year, they decided to make a special contribution of their own. The team donated 30 basketballs this year and will be on hand at the distribution next Tuesday, December 17, 2013, from 6-8 p.m., at Logan Middle School.

Mark Hatcher coached Matt Patterson throughout his school years and he has supported the toy drive for a number of years.

“I always had a great relationship with that family. When they contacted us about the toy drive, we did whatever they needed us to do. This year when they contacted us about donated basketballs, we donated one ball for each boy from the team. Matt was a really special kid to me and whatever I can do to honor him I will do,” said Hatcher.

Drop off points for toys are the LEASA office behind McDonald’s in Logan; Giovanni’s in Logan; Bray and Oakley Insurance at Logan and Thornhill Superstore at Chapmanville. Candy says Thornhill’s has a truck in their showroom they are trying to fill.

“I knew this year there would be more children since the economy is so bad, and we have cross-checked lists with other agencies to be sure our list is accurate and we can help as many children as possible,” said Candy.

Anyone wanting to make a donation can leave toys at any of the above-mentioned drop off points until Monday, December 16, 2013. The Matt Patterson Memorial Toy Drive is a non-profit organization and monetary donations will be accepted. All donations benefit children in Logan County.